It was October 5th, 2018. The evening sun set the sky ablaze with a scarlet flame. Embers that caught onto our dojo, and burned within.

Me. A 5’9 amateur with the flexibility of a wooden plank. Years of practice for this very day, it was time to show what I was made of.

Her. A 5’4 tigress who’s cat-like reflexes were feared amongst the rest. Her fast strikes, high kicks, and agile reflexes were all camouflaged by her physical appearance. How? She was a 62 year old grandmother of 4. Go figure.

Unbeknownst to her super-human capabilities, I stepped forth. The confidence surged throughout my body, and my fighter spirit took over. Our Sifu glanced at us, and we nodded.

“FIGHT!” Sifu yells.

I test her with a jab, to which grandma counters with a spinning roundhouse directly to my head. I’m on the floor, dazed. Unable to comprehend what the hell just hit me.

A year and a half of blood, sweat, more blood, and even more tears, for this very moment.

Moral of the story:
Have zero expectations, and be prepared for any challenge life throws at you.

Even if it’s a ninja assassin grandma.